How to Use ACVLA for Animal Health Diagnosis as a VPP/Vet

Overview;

In veterinary practice, accurate diagnosis is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of animals. The ACVLA app is a powerful tool designed to assist Veterinary Paraprofessionals (VPPs) and veterinarians (VETs) in diagnosing animal conditions efficiently. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of using the ACVLA app, from logging in to confirming a diagnosis. By following these instructions, you will be able to navigate the app confidently and make informed decisions regarding animal health.

Step 1: Log In

• Open the ACVLA app and log in to your account.

Step 2: Select Animal Species

• Choose the animal species you wish to diagnose. In this example, we will select Cattle.

Step 3: Choose a Sign

• Select an anatomical, behavioral, or environmental sign. For this example, we’ll choose Foot.

Step 4: Select Signs

• Tap the "Select Signs" button at the bottom of the screen.

Step 5: Review Matching Differentials

• As you select clinical signs, observe the number of matching differentials displayed in the bottom right corner. For instance, if you select a blister on the coronary band, you may see 2 matching differentials.

Step 6: Add More Signs

• To refine your diagnosis, you can add more signs by selecting the "Add Signs" button at the bottom left. This will return you to the previous screen to select another area. Aim to add as many clinical signs as possible to reduce the number of matching differentials. 
  

Step 7: Proceed to Differentials

• Once you have reduced the number of matching differentials, tap the "Differentials" button at the bottom right.

Step 8: Review Differential Diseases

• You will see a list of matching differential diseases based on your selected signs.
• Review each differential disease and the signs typically associated with it. Determine which differential closely matches the observed signs and confirm your selection.
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Step 9: Verify Clinical Signs

• After selecting the relevant differential disease (for example, FMD), move on by selecting the "Check" button at the bottom of the screen.
• View each clinical sign for the selected disease and indicate whether the sign is present or absent.

Step 10: Confirm Your Diagnosis

• After processing all signs, proceed to the next step by selecting the "Confirm" button.
• The app will display the percentage of signs you have identified for that disease (e.g., 93% for FMD). Note that achieving 100% is rare due to factors like disease stage or severity.

Step 11: Lab Diagnosis

• If needed, you can perform further checks to confirm the diagnosis. Select the "Lab Diagnosis" button for more information.
• For example, for FMD, it may suggest laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis by collecting blister fluid.

Step 12: Review Prevention Information

• Additional information can be found by selecting the "Prevention" button. For FMD, you might find that vaccines are available in some countries.

Step 13: Check Treatment Options

• To find out about available treatments, select the "Recommended Treatment" button.
• If any treatments are available, a list of authorized medicines will be displayed. For FMD, there may be no known treatments listed.

Step 14: Restart the Diagnosis

• After completing your diagnosis and if you wish to carry out another, select the "Restart" button at the top right of the screen.
• In the popup that appears, select "Yes" to clear the existing diagnosis. You will then be taken back to the species selection page.

Conclusion;

The ACVLA app streamlines the diagnostic process, allowing VPPs and VETs to make informed decisions based on clinical signs and differential diagnoses. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively utilize the app to enhance your diagnostic capabilities and improve outcomes for the animals you care for. Whether you're confirming a diagnosis or exploring treatment options, the ACVLA app is an invaluable resource in modern veterinary practice. Don't hesitate to restart the process for additional diagnoses to ensure the best care for your patients.